The molten torrent streaming from the volcano's mouth began to thin, and a cautious relief spread through the survivors. But that momentary calm was shattered when the mountain bellowed again. The roar was deeper this time, angrier, and a fresh column of lava surged skyward. Within the blazing current, countless molten boulders—some the size of houses—hurtled into the air before plummeting earthward.
The crowd's panic reignited instantly.
